Over the last decade, flat-faced dogs like the French Bulldog and English Bulldog have become much more popular among pet owners. This facial formation is considered brachycephalic, meaning “short head.” Other breeds that fall into this category include Boxers, Shih Tzus, Pugs, Boston Terriers, and more. These short noses may be appealing, but they do come with several complications that pet owners should be aware of—most notably, breathing problems and airway obstruction.
Components
Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS) is the term that encompasses the most common malformations seen in these patients.
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Stenotic nares – The nostrils are too small for adequate airflow through the nose.
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Elongated soft palates – The soft palate is often too long for the shorter mouth, and the extra tissue obstructs the airway during breathing.
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Hypoplastic tracheas – The trachea is congenitally smaller than average, reducing airflow to the lungs.
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Everted laryngeal saccules – These are two structures in the throat that are usually not visible but can be turned inside out into the airway after being under high pressure chronically.
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There are other components, like abnormally large tongues and malformed nasal turbinates that also contribute to abnormal airflow in these breeds.
Symptoms
The snorting sounds so classic to these breeds are actually symptoms of their airway malformations, specifically the stenotic nares and elongated soft palate. This is a sign of inadequate airflow. Imagine breathing through a straw every day of your life—that is the unfortunate circumstance these pets live with.
Because an abnormal airway prevents patients from oxygenating properly and does not allow them to cool down efficiently, heat stroke and respiratory distress are also more frequently seen in these breeds. These are medical emergencies that can easily become fatal.
These patients also often have abnormal digestion associated with their respiratory issues. Many of them also have hiatal hernias, where part of the stomach is pulled into the chest due to intense pressure exerted during breathing. Aspiration of water and food, regurgitation, vomiting, and flatulence are commonly seen clinical signs.
While snorting, limited ability to exercise, and frequent vomiting are commonly seen in brachycephalic breeds, they should not be considered normal and should be addressed with your veterinarian. There are many possible medications, surgical procedures, and diet and lifestyle changes to help promote the best health and quality of life for your pet.
Surgical Options
Two procedures that are commonly performed to treat airway obstruction include nares resection to widen the nostrils and soft palate resection to remove excess tissue. These surgeries dramatically improve airflow and reduce pressure in the throat and chest.
Ideally, these procedures are performed between 6–12 months of age when the pet is being spayed or neutered, but they can be completed at any time. Laryngeal saccules can also be removed if needed, though this procedure is less commonly performed.
Lifestyle & Diet Changes
Brachycephalic breeds should be closely monitored during outdoor activity and heavy exercise. Even in temperatures as low as 70 degrees, these patients can overheat.
Make sure your pet has plenty of water, shade, and access to indoors. Avoid long runs or walks in warm weather and restrict activity in the summer. Monitor closely for excessive panting, weakness, lethargy, or collapse. If you suspect heat stroke, seek veterinary care immediately. Fans and cool, wet towels may help with active cooling while transporting for care.
In general, these breeds often do well on a low-fat diet. Lower-fat foods move more quickly through the stomach and may reduce vomiting and regurgitation. Adding water or feeding canned food is also helpful in many cases.
Slow-feeder bowls help prevent eating too quickly and reduce excess air intake. Smaller, more frequent meals may also improve digestion.
Maintaining a healthy body condition is extremely important. Keeping these pets lean reduces the risk of respiratory distress, heat stroke, and orthopedic strain.
If your dog has trouble breathing, overheats easily, or struggles with exercise, don’t wait to have them evaluated. Early treatment of Brachycephalic Airway Obstruction Syndrome can greatly improve comfort, breathing, and quality of life.
Schedule an appointment today to discuss treatment options for your pet.